240z Fuel Tank Strap Cushions
The straps that hold the fuel tank to the body need a cushion. Here's a cheap & easy solution
The fuel tank for a 240z/260z/280z is held in place with a pair of steel straps. Between the tank and the straps is a thin layer of rubber, which help prevent the edge of the straps from cutting into the tank itself and creating a leak, which would be very bad. After 50+ years, the rubber has typically lost all flexibility. You can buy replacement pieces for a fairly reasonable price (plus shipping and waiting for it to arrive) or you can do it for about half the cost and not have to wait. Start to finish took less than an hour.
I used bicycle inner tubes from Walmart. They were just $5 each.
It doesn't really matter what wheel size you select. These were for a 26" wheel and there was plenty left over.
You can also use "thorn-proof" tubes, which are thicker, but the stardard tubes seem to work well enough.
Here's what a tube looks like out of the box. The manufacturer sucked all of the air out to keep it flat when folded.
Keep the valve cap closed because once you open it, they puff up, which makes it a little difficult to wedge them between the tank and strap.
Loosen the straps one at a time. Starting at the bumper end, slide the inner tube between the strap and the tank. It's easy.
Wiggle it around a little to get it centered, then use a pair of scissors to cut off the excess length at each end.
Tighten the strap nice and snug. You don't want the tank bouncing around.
Do the same with the other strap and you're done.
Tip: hang onto the leftover pieces because you can use them to make "rubber bands" of all sizes.